Customer activated device

Abstract

The preferred embodiment of the invention comprises proximity actuated signalling apparatus, for use in restaurants and the like, permitting a customer to conveniently inform service personnel that service is desired. A local unit positioned within a convenient distance of the customer is actuated by the customer touching the unit to turn on a light emitting indicator. Optionally, a transmitter is actuated to generate a radiated signal which turns on one or more remote indicators.

I claim: 
     
       1. A portable customer activated device for activating an indicator having an on and off state, said portable device including a proximity actuated circuit, a power source, and an enclosure; said enclosure comprising a simulated beverage bottle, said indicator, said proximity actuated circuit and said power source being mounted inside said enclosure, said proximity actuated circuit including a proximity sensor mounted near the opening of said simulated beverage bottle whereby said customer selectively activates said device by positioning a selected portion of said customer's body within a predetermined distance of said sensor to activate said proximity actuated circuit to switch said indicator to said on state to indicate to service personnel that said customer desires service and thereby causing said proximity actuated circuit to latch in the on state until switched to the off state. 
     
     
       2. The device of claim 1 wherein said proximity actuated circuit is switched to the off state by means of an automation time out. 
     
     
       3. The device of claim 1 wherein said proximity actuated circuit is switched to the off state by means of service personnel. 
     
     
       4. The device of claim 1 further including transmitter means responsive to said proximity actuated circuit to generate a radiated signal which activates a remote indicator in response to the activation of said proximity actuated circuit.